Big Data And Information Privacy - 2076 Words

Davis Model United Nations Conference 2016 Committee: CSTD Country: Indonesia Topic 1: Big Data and Information Privacy Topic Background The amount of data on the planet in 2014 was around 4.4 zettabytes. It’s expected to grow to 44ZB by the year 2020. It’s also predicted that by 2020, the amount of information produced by machines will account for about 10% of data on earth. One Zettabyte is 1000 Exabytes or 1 Billion Terrabytes. To put it in perspective, with one exabyte of data, a person can watch 36,000 years worth of HD videos. So, with one zettabyte of data, thousands of generations can watch 36 million years of HD videos. One doesn’t have to be Albert Einstein to know that the amount of data usage on this planet will reach†¦show more content†¦It predicts the most likely event as the probable future, not using magic or any machines from Science Fiction novels. Big Data also cannot â€Å"read minds†. Rather, it predicts a person’s interests and produces the types of advertisements or information the said person would be interested in. Big Data can anal yze a customer’s purchases, profile information, and make an accurate prediction on what his/her interests will be. Big Data has the potential to be the phenomenal tool of the future. It can accurately predict what a customer wants and show advertisements that he or she is actually interested in; It can be installed in smart cars, where an automatic distress call is sent when an unlucky individual is in a car accident; It can be uploaded to devices that closely monitor people’s health and report any irregularities to their doctor.4 Past UN Involvement There is a committee called the United Nations Global Pulse, which is dedicated to â€Å"harnessing big data for development and humanitarian action†.5 â€Å"Its vision is a future in which big data is harnessed safely and responsibly as a public good. Its mission is to accelerate discovery, development and scaled adoption of big data innovation for sustainable development and humanitarian action.†5. Global Pulse functions as innovation initiative that explores how big data and real-time analytics can help the advancement of the

The Most Incredibly Ignored Answer for Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples

The Most Incredibly Ignored Answer for Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples Students must cooperate with one another and with adults whilst in the gymnasium and on the area. They will play a game in which they need to change direction quickly. They must have completed a minimum of 50 credits in order to select this Option. Ancient Greece Cyber Hunt Grades Intermediate Students are supplied with questions and web sites to find out more about the Ancient Olympics. Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples Explained Complete block style business letters have a formal look, however they may be used in informal small business situations together with formal ones. A lesson that's well-planned in advance is going to be a better lesson. Therefore, knowing the suitable book format you will need is essential. The usage of appropriate margins, line spacing, and punctuation are likewise some of the most crucial facets of an official letter. If you've got your architect create y our plan you'll also have to pay their fees too. In case you have any enclosures to include within this letter, take note at the bottom left, a couple spaces beneath the signature block. Based on what you tell us, we'll send information to help you get through the application procedure. Each new site will take an individual fingerprinting and background check. Students select the meal program which most fits the range of meals they anticipate using for a full term. A calendar year long plan is meant to provide you a summary of your curriculum at a glance. OK so you've completed your lesson program. Monthly work plans need to be able to assemble the whole planning and execution processes that ought to be implemented to attain the objective statement of the organization. Marketing your book can be very hard without a good plan of attack. Many ideas showcasing simple small business plans are seen on the webpage. Examine the course offerings and see whether they interest you. Nonetheless, there are a number of great choices. Please read through the next information to guarantee you decide on the Block Plan you require. For downloading files there's no need to experience the registration procedure, just one click and a free CAD Block is on your PC! Ice Block making machine are of distinct types and it includes different capacity. Thanks for a fantastic tool and speedy customer service! The Good, the Bad and Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples You should be in a position to list down the resources that you have which can help you accomplish the content of your work program. Fortunately, tools like Google Forms make it simpler than ever to use student surveys as a way for gathering critical info to help teachers make informed curriculum d ecisions. If a work program is going to be utilised in a business setting, it's necessary for you to assure that the tasks are appropriately disseminated to the workers of the business based on their qualifications, abilities and competencies. Work plans utilized in businesses are needed to have a background discussion so the entities involved with the transaction and their work functions are correctly stated. In the majority of programs, you will be taking lots of those, too. If you own a feeling of what you would like to do after you graduate, see whether any alumni of the program are pursuing that sort of career. If you plan far enough ahead, you will be able to get lots of feedback from your family members, friends, and teachers, also. Among the challenges of block scheduling is fitting in all the content you may be utilised to teaching on a daily schedule. In addition to the 3 hours every morning, labs usually occur three or more times weekly for at least two hours. Additionally, there are countless foreign blocks, which are classes provided in different parts of the nation or overseas. It is also helpful to study different countries of earth! It's the sole academic structure of its kind in the nation and is the key reason kids come here. The Good, the Bad and Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples Colorado is a distinctive and intriguing place to go to. In this instance , it can be recommended to take the heartfelt strategy and compose a story about something before that made you simply drawn to devote your college years at Colorado College. Colorado Springs is a little town. Meanwhile, you can considervisiting Colorado College's campusto take a look at the campus and find some inspiration. The Chronicles of Colorado College Block Plan Essay Samples If you genuinely desire to acquire admission in a specific college, the College Scholarship Essay Examples can help you in your essay that will demonstrate your desire to follow a college education. Don't forget that you could always change your essay topic in case you decide you have not chosen the ideal one for the essay. At our essay support, essays are always delivered in a brief moment. Writing a college essay can arrive in various forms and styles based on your taste.

Summary Statement free essay sample

Summary Statement These are the competency Units and Elements. These elements must be addressed in the Summary Statement (see Section C). If you are applying for assessment as an Engineering Associate, you will need to download this page, complete it, and lodge it with your application. Competency Element |A brief summary of how you have applied the |Paragraph in the career episode(s) | | |element |where the element is addressed | |EA1 KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL BASE | |EA1. Descriptive, formula-based understanding of | | | |the underpinning natural and physical sciences and| | | |the engineering fundamentals applicable to the | | | |practice area | | | |EA1. Procedural-level understanding of the | | | |mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics and | | | |computer and information sciences which underpin | | | |the practice area | | | | EA1. In-depth practical knowledge and skills | | | |within specialist sub-disciplines of the practice | | | |area | | | |EA1. 4 Discernment of ngineering developments | | | |within the practice area | | | |EA1. 5 Knowledge of contextual factors impacting | | | |the practice area | | | |EA1. Understanding of the scope, principles, | | | |norms, accountabilities and bounds of contemporary| | | |engineering practice in the area of practice | | | |EA2 ENGINEERING APPLICATION ABILITY | |EA2. We will write a custom essay sample on Summary Statement or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Application of established technical and | | | |practical methods to the solution of well-defined | | | |engineering problems | | | |EA2. Application of technical and practical | | | |techniques, tools and resources to well-defined | | | |engineering problems | | | |EA2. Application of systematic design processes | | | |to well-defined engineering problems | | | | EA2. 4 Application of systematic project management| | | |processes | | | EA3 PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES | |EA3. 1 Ethical conduct and professional | | | |accountability | | | |EA3. Effective oral and written communication in | | | |professional and lay domains | | | |EA3. 3 Creative, innovative and proactive demeanour| | | |EA3. Professional use and management of | | | |information | | | |EA3. Orderly management of self, and professional| | | |conduct | | | |EA3. 6 Effective team membership and team | | | |leadership | | |

Management of Water Supply Projects in Malaysia

Water is one of the fundamental elements that supports life and forms part of the resources that influence human economic development. Water is not readily available in some parts of Malaysia and its abundance is largely determined by climatic changes, geographical positions and political environment to some extent (Yong, 2004).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Management of Water Supply Projects in Malaysia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The world today is facing a serious fresh water crisis due to the pressure exerted on water catchment areas of the ever-growing population. Research shows that the majority of highly populated regions have a high water shortage (Renganathan, 2000). In Malaysia, the Integrated Water Resources Management, IWRM was introduced in the early 1990s being the sole water management initiative in the country (Global Water intelligence, 2003). It led to the formation of management groups later in 1997 such as Malaysia water partnership My WP, and later the Malaysia capacity building network for IWRM, MyCapNet (Clark, 1991). Water sustainability in Malaysia is very well covered in a number of policies.  In Sabah, the local authorities have put in place plans to enhance and mange forest sustainability such as the integration of the river basin management plans (Chan, 2000). These will greatly improve the quality of the state’s water supply as well as enhance sustainable water management, hence, stabilizing water supply. Integration of the river basin will also ensure that land, water, and biodiversity are protected for the benefit of the locals. Borneo, an island in the state, is characterized by biodiversity. The state has formed platforms to engage the non-governmental organizations as well as the locals to address the issues that affect the environment.  All the measures are aimed at protecting and preserving natural resources to avoid extinction, which can have adverse effects on the livelihood of the locals. These initiatives also have improved the quality of life for the locals hence increasing the life expectancy. The management plan includes guidelines on how to return wastewater to the environment (Chan, 2000). It also engages protecting and rehabilitating water catchment areas.Advertising Looking for report on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To show its commitment, Malaysia is a signatory to a number of environmental conservation declarations. One of them is the international conference on water and the environment in Dublin in the year 1992 (Renganathan, 2000). Others include the earth summit, world water forums to mention but a few (Global Water intelligence, 2003). The department of drainage and irrigation is the major custodian of the IWRM implementation working together with the My WP (Yong, 2004). The country has made remarkable progress in implantin g their initiative and the benefits are immense. The local villagers can take an opportunity provided by the water conservation programs and increase their economic activities through agriculture.  With a sustainable water supply, farmers in the village will not have to depend on seasonal rains to farm. To enhance the village’s life expectancy requires a full implementation of the water management policies and innovative economic activities that take advantage of the available water.  Protecting water catchment areas and forest increases the life expectancy by a reasonable percentage since fresh and clean water enhances good health. Water is the source of life even for a crop, creating a cycle of dependency between plants and animals. Therefore, sustainable farming can be well supported by these initiatives hence improving the economic status of the locals. Farming is one of the most feasible economic activities for them. References Chan, N. W. (2000c) Current Environment al Issues in Malaysia. Web. Clark, R. (1991) Water: The International Crisis. Web.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Management of Water Supply Projects in Malaysia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Global Water intelligence, (2003). The Malaysian government to manage water supply projects. Market-Leading Analysis of the International Water Industry, 4 (9), 1. Renganathan, M. (2000). Taking Care of Water, the Responsibility of All. Web. Yong, F. T. (2004). Water Engineering. Bulletin Ingenieur. 22 (01), 56-86. This report on Management of Water Supply Projects in Malaysia was written and submitted by user Farrah J. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Donner Party, Ill-Fated Settlers Turned to Cannibalism

The Donner Party, Ill-Fated Settlers Turned to Cannibalism The Donner Party was a group of American settlers heading to California who became stranded in heavy snows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in 1846. Isolated in horrific conditions, about half of the original group of nearly 90 people died of starvation or exposure. Some of the survivors turned to cannibalism in order to survive. After those who managed to stay alive were rescued in early 1847, the story of horror in the mountains appeared in a California newspaper. The tale made its way east, circulated through newspaper articles, and became part of western lore. Fast Facts: The Donner Party About half of a group of nearly 90 settlers heading to California in 1846 starved when snowbound.Disaster was caused by taking an untested route which added weeks to the journey.Survivors eventually resorted to cannibalism.Story circulated widely through newspaper stories and books. Origin of the Donner Party The Donner Party was named for two families, George Donner and his wife and children, and George’s brother Jacob and his wife and children. They were from Springfield, Illinois, as was another family traveling with them, James Reed and his wife and children. Also from Springfield were various individuals associated with the Donner and Reed families. That original group left Illinois in April 1846 and arrived in Independence, Missouri, the following month. After securing provisions for the long trip westward, the group, along with other travelers from a variety of places, left Independence on May 12, 1846. (People would typically meet in Independence and decide to stick together for the journey westward, which is how some members of the Donner Party joined the group essentially by chance.) The group made good progress along the trail westward, and in about a week had met up with another wagon train, which they joined. The early part of the journey passed with no major problems. The George Donners wife had written a letter describing the early weeks of the trip which appeared in the newspaper back in Springfield. The letter also appeared in papers in the East, including the New York Herald, which published it on the front page. After passing Fort Laramie, a major landmark on the way west, they met up with a rider who gave them a letter which claimed that troops from Mexico (which was at war with the United States) might interfere with their passage ahead. The letter advised taking a shortcut called the Hastings Cutoff. Shortcut to Disaster After arriving at Fort Bridger (in present day Wyoming), the Donners, the Reeds, and others debated whether to take the shortcut. They were assured, falsely it turned out, that the traveling would be easy. Through a series of miscommunications, they did not receive warnings from those who knew otherwise. The Donner Party decided to take the shortcut, which led them into many hardships. The route, which took them on a southerly path about Great Salt Lake, was not clearly marked. And it was often very difficult passage for the groups wagon. The shortcut required passing over the Great Salt Lake Desert. The conditions were like nothing any of the travelers had seen before, with blistering heat by day and frigid winds at night. It took five days to cross the desert, leaving the 87 members of the party, including many children, exhausted. Some of the party’s oxen had died in the brutal conditions, and it became obvious that taking the shortcut had been a colossal blunder. Taking the promised shortcut had backfired, and put the group about three weeks behind schedule. Had they taken the more established route, they would have gotten across the final mountains before any chance of snowfall and arrived in California safely. Tensions in the Group With the travelers seriously behind schedule, anger flared in the group. In October the Donner families broke off to go ahead, hoping to make better time. In the main group, an argument broke out between a man named John Snyder and James Reed. Snyder struck Reed with an ox whip, and Reed responded by stabbing Snyder and killing him. The killing of Snyder happened beyond U.S. laws, as it was then Mexican territory. In such a circumstance, it would be up to the members of a wagon train to decide how to dispense justice. With the groups leader, George Donner, at least a day’s travel ahead, the others decided to banish Reed from the group. With high mountains still to cross, the party of settlers was in disarray and deeply distrustful of each other. They had already endured more than their share of hardships on the trails, and seemingly endless problems, including bands of Native Americans raiding at night and stealing oxen, continued to plague them. Trapped by Snow Arriving at the Sierra Nevada mountain range at the end of October, early snows were already making the journey difficult. When they reached the vicinity of Truckee Lake (now called Donner Lake), they discovered the mountain passes they needed to cross were already blocked by snowdrifts. Attempts to get over the passes failed. A group of 60 travelers settled into crude cabins which had been built and abandoned two years earlier by other settlers passing by. A smaller group, including the Donners, set up a camp a few miles away. Stranded by impassable snow, the supplies quickly dwindled. The travelers had never seen such snow conditions before, and attempts by small parties to walk onward to California to get help were thwarted by the deep snowdrifts. Facing starvation, people ate the carcasses of their oxen. When the meat ran out, they were reduced to boiling ox hide and eating it. At times people caught mice in the cabins and ate them. In December, a party of 17, consisting of men, women, and children, set out with snowshoes they had fashioned. The party found the traveling nearly impossible, but kept moving westward. Facing starvation, some of the party resorted to cannibalism, eating the flesh of those who had died. At one point, two Nevada Indians who had joined the group before they headed into the mountains were shot and killed so their flesh could be eaten. (That was the only instance in the story of the Donner Party where people were killed to be eaten. The other instances of cannibalism occurred after people had died of exposure or starvation.) One member of the party, Charles Eddy, eventually managed to wander into a village of the Miwok tribe. The Native Americans gave him food, and after he reached white settlers at a ranch, he managed to get a rescue party together. They found the six survivors of the snowshoe group. Back at the camp by the lake, one of the travelers, Patrick Breen, had started keeping a diary. His entries were brief, at first just descriptions of the weather. But over time he began noting the increasingly desperate conditions as more and more of those stranded succumbed to starvation. Breen survived the ordeal and his diary was eventually published. Rescue Efforts One of the travelers who had gone ahead in October became increasingly alarmed when the Donner Party never showed up at Sutter’s Fort in California. He tried to raise the alarm and eventually was able to inspire what eventually amounted to four separate rescue missions. What the rescuers discovered was disturbing. The survivors were emaciated. And in some of the cabins rescuers discovered bodies which had been butchered. A member of a rescue party described finding a body with the head sawed open so the brains could be extracted. The various mutilated bodies were gathered together and buried in one of the cabins, which was then burned to the ground. Of the 87 travelers who entered the mountains on the final phase of the journey, 48 survived. Most of them stayed in California. Legacy of the Donner Party Stories about the Donner Party began to circulate immediately. By the summer of 1847 the story had reached the newspaper in the East. The New York Tribune published a story on August 14, 1847, which gave some grim details. The Weekly National Intelligencer, a Washington, D.C. newspaper, published a story on October 30, 1847, which described the terrible suffering of the Donner Party. An editor of a local newspaper in Truckee, California, Charles McGlashan, became something of an expert on the story of the Donner Party. In the 1870s he talked to survivors and pieced together a comprehensive account of the tragedy. His book, History of the Donner Party: A Tragedy of the Sierra, was published in 1879 and went through many editions. The story of the Donner Party has lived on, through a number of books and films based on the tragedy. In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, many settlers heading to California took what happened as a serious warning not to lose time on the trail and not to take unreliable shortcuts. Sources: Distressing News. American Eras: Primary Sources, edited by Sara Constantakis, et al., vol. 3: Westward Expansion, 1800-1860, Gale, 2014, pp. 95-99. Gale Virtual Reference Library.Brown, Daniel James.  The Indifferent Stars Above: The Harrowing Saga of the Donner Party. William Morrow Company, 2015.

How to Determine a Reliable Source on the Internet

How to Determine a Reliable Source on the Internet It can be frustrating to conduct online research because internet sources can be quite unreliable. If you find an online article that provides relevant information for your research topic, you should take care to investigate the source to make sure it is valid and reliable. This is an essential step in maintaining sound research ethics. It is your responsibility as a researcher to find and use trustworthy sources. Methods to Investigate Your Source Investigate the Author In most cases, you should stay away from internet information that doesnt provide the name of an author. While the information contained in the article may be true, it is more difficult to validate information if you dont know the credentials of the author. If the author is named,  find their website to: Verify educational creditsDiscover if the writer is published in a scholarly journalSee if the writer has published a book from a university pressVerify that the writer is employed by a research institution or university Observe the URL If the information is linked to an organization, try to determine the reliability of the sponsoring organization. One tip is the URL ending. If the site name ends with .edu, it is most likely an educational institution. Even so, you should be aware of political bias. If a site ends in .gov, it is most likely a reliable government website. Government sites are usually good sources for statistics and objective reports. Sites that end in .org are usually non-profit organizations. They can be very good sources or very poor sources, so youll have to take care to research their possible agendas or political biases if they exist. For instance, collegeboard.org is the organization that provides the SAT and other tests. You can find valuable information, statistics, and advice on that site. PBS.org is a non-profit organization that provides educational public broadcasts. It provides a wealth of quality articles on its site. Other sites with the .org ending are advocacy groups that are highly political. While it is entirely possible to find reliable information from a site like this,  be mindful of the political slant and acknowledge this in your work. Online Journals and Magazines A reputable journal or magazine should contain a bibliography for every article. The list of sources within that bibliography should be pretty extensive, and it should include scholarly non-Internet sources. Check for statistics and data within the article to back up the claims made by the author. Does the writer provide evidence to support his statements? Look for citations of recent studies, perhaps with footnotes and see if there are primary quotes from other relevant experts in the field. News Sources ï » ¿Every television and print news source has a website. To some extent, you can rely on the most trusted news sources such as CNN and the BBC, but you should not rely on them exclusively. After all, network and cable news stations are involved in entertainment. Think of them as a stepping stone to more reliable sources.

SLP 2 HRM - 402 CONDUCTING NEED ASSESSMENTS Essay

SLP 2 HRM - 402 CONDUCTING NEED ASSESSMENTS - Essay Example This process also helps new employees to know what the organization expects from them. Implementation of training strategies in organizations also helps in attracting a pool of qualified employees who want to join organizations that also consider their professional development. This process also helps organizations have employees who are able to support their goals, which in turn supports their growth and expansion. Training also improves the level of motivation and efficiency of employees. Finally, this process decreases the need for employees to be supervised. This means that supervisors can use the time to perform more productive activities in the organization. Employees usually need to be trained in various areas from the time when they join and organization, for example, new employees need to be trained on the goals and objective of the company. They also need to be trained on how the company expects them to perform their duties. This is crucial because organizations do not have the same way of performing tasks. New employees will benefit in terms of being able to easily perform their duties. They will be more comfortable and confident in their tasks. Training is also crucial when new processes or technologies are introduced to the company. This will help employees gain knowledge on how to better perform tasks. New technology is useless if employees do not know how to make use of them. Employees will benefit by being more efficient in their duties as they apply the new processes or technologies. The process of training is intricate and challenging. Organizations need to divide up the process of training in different separate steps. For training to be successful, it is crucial for the organization to perform a training needs assessment. This makes sure that training concentrates on an employee’s weakness in order to improve the quality and the quantity of output. With a greater knowledge of the training

Analytic and critical thinking essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Analytic and critical thinking - Essay Example Nevertheless, through the enlightenment he acquired through the teachings of Buddha, he was able to acquire wisdom and understanding and therefore was able to live an exemplary life. This paper then looks deeper into the perceptions of Thich Nhat Hanh and why he claims that death is non-existent, reflecting Buddhist philosophies. In his journey to understanding what death is all about, Hanh experienced illumination during one of his meditative states. He saw a japonica bush that blossomed one winter when warmer days came quite early. However, when winter conditions took its natural course, the blossoms fell to the ground. When the weather got warm again, another set of flowers blossomed and the wonderment whether those were the same blossoms that fell to the ground or whether they are different was asked by the hermit. The answer of the blossoms gave a new understanding to the seeker of truth and there begun his freedom from grief regarding death. He observes that the blossoms  "were not the same and not different† (Hanh). When the day became warm during winter, it was a condition that allowed the flowers to blossom and they manifested themselves. However, when the conditions changed, bringing the cold gloomy days which are not a convenient for the flowers to thrive, they fell from the bush instead but showed themselves again when the circumstances permitted their existence. Nevertheless, that is not considered the dying of the flowers. This perfectly exemplifies the belief of the Buddha that â€Å"when conditions are sufficient, something manifests and we say it exists† (8). The blossoming and falling of the flowers are considered in Buddhism, as a condition wherein they have hidden themselves because the weather condition is not well-suited or convenient for them. Another insightful example the Hanh presents in trying to explain his perspective is that, death only brings a person to another level of being. To expound further, he likens peopl e to radio waves which, â€Å"without a radio, we do not manifest† (12). This means that there is a tangible and an intangible part of us. The tangible part, which is the body, may die and eventually decay. However, there is an intangible part which becomes ever present to his loved ones. A loved one whose body has gone is not actually gone forever but is always present evidenced by the ground their feet once trod, an abode or even a person’s very self. Buddhists believe just because one is not physically seen does not mean he is not present. Rather, it is only the body wherein a person once manifested himself that is gone. Coming from a family whose parents are divorced, this notion is a great help for my coping. Although I live with my mother only, I do not see myself as without my father. Distance is not what defines his existence but it is who he is in me. I am his son, his blood runs through my veins and somehow, I know that he is there with me even if I do not se e him. Similarly, when death comes, it only separates me from my loved ones physically but their presence is always felt even though I do not see them. Death and grief are difficult to overcome. Some people even violate their own lives because they are not able to cope with the emotions brought about by this incident.

Environmental Impacts & Consumption Essay Example for Free

Environmental Impacts Consumption Essay In an article examining resource consumption in the Welsh capital of Cardiff, Collins, et al. (2006) provide a critique of the tool known as the Ecological Footprint that has, in recent years, gained increasing currency in the assessment of anthropogenic environmental impact, as well as a brief history of its development and its implementation. By thoroughly scrutinizing the limitations and implications of Footprint methodology, Collins, et al. concluded which critical areas of consumption need to be addressed in Cardiff. Ultimately, the researchers’ goal is to provide a comprehensive value assessment of the Ecological Footprint methodology in relation to its utility in the development of sustainability policies. The article in question is entitled, â€Å"The Environmental Impacts of Consumption at a Subnational Level: The Ecological Footprint of Cardiff,† by John Barrett, Andrea Collins, Andrew Flynn, and Thomas Wiedmann. It was published in the Journal of Industrial Ecology in 2006. In it, Collins, et al, discussed the history of the Ecological Footprinting methodology, noting that it is premised on the idea that the planet has a limited ability to provide for all human resource demands. Therefore, any policy decisions regarding resource use must take this into account by balancing planetary limits against economic growth. Collins, et al, posited that humanity is currently in a state of overshoot, in which natural capital is being used faster than the planet can replenish it. Despite the strong interest which governments have taken to the use of Ecological Footprint as a sustainability indicator, it faces some criticism: Some have argued that it does not accurately reflect the impact of human consumption. Others maintain that it does not apportion the responsibility for impact in any useful manner. Regardless, Collins et al asserted that the Ecological Footprint is at the very least, useful to policy makers due to its power to communicate the link between consumption and impact. One of the key themes of the article was the need for measurements of sustainability and resource use to be fair and legitimate ones. In effect, the concern was that for any meaningful changes to be made regarding improving matters of sustainability in the city of Cardiff (or any other city for that matter) it would be necessary that data obtained is actually useful to the formulation of sustainability policy any resource use. To do otherwise, would only stymie progress in these areas or result in what other pundits have called, â€Å"greenwashing† which is the illusory notion of sustainability. As such, footprinting is designed to use standardized official and annual statistics and expenditure data to establish substantial links between personal consumption and environmental impacts, with resource use being the chain between them. As a city that has become driven primarily by finance, retail and tourism as its chief economic sectors, Cardiff’s participation in manufacturing has declined significantly over the years and developed a moderately prosperous lifestyle. However, its residents live an unsustainable lifestyle, using three times the average â€Å"earthshare,† and placing them well into overshoot. Furthermore, a majority of the resource consumption residents engage in is derived from food, travel, energy and consumables. The result is that dramatic changes will be necessary to address this. Ultimately, it is personal consumption rather than local industry that puts Cardiff residents in the position of being unequitable in their use of resources, and requires reframing social practices and institutional structures to undo these habits. These consumption domains include food and drink, with the primary area of concern being energy-intense preparation methods; transport, with concern directed towards private transportation; and tourism, with their intense reliance on catered food being of concern. In conclusion, Collins, et al, argued that Footprinting is of great utility in measuring impacts, but it must also be balanced against recognition of contexts which consumption should be set against: In the case of Cardiff, it should not be used to flatten the individual experiences of consumption, nor should its organizational nuances be neglected in assessing impacts. Simply put, the Footprint methodology is only as useful as the context it is set against, and the extent to which it is refined for socio-economic groups or geographic/subnational ones.

Morality in the Epic of Beowulf :: Epic of Beowulf Essays

Beowulf’s story is somewhat of an allegory in which he is depicted as the Christ figure. The theme of Beowulf is a contrast of good and evil which is manifest in both Christian and pagan elements; Beowulf represents good, while Grendel, his mother, and the dragon represent evil. The first monster our hero, Beowulf, faces is Grendel. Grendel is said to be a descendant of Cain. â€Å"Unhappy creature (Grendel), he lived for a time in the home of the monsters’ race, after God had condemned them as kin of Cain† (Norton, 28). Cain is the son of Eve, the woman who bore sin into the world. A connection, however vague, can be made between the maternal relations of Eve and Cain and Grendel and his mother. Grendel’s mother can be considered to personify man’s fall from grace and Grendel himself might embody sin. Furthermore, the dragon Beowulf battles can be said to be a picture of Satan: â€Å"the smooth hateful dragon who flies at night wrapped in flameâ⠂¬  (56). When facing Grendel, Beowulf relies on God alone to protect him, saying, "†¦may wise God, Holy Lord, assign glory on whichever hand seems good to Him† (36). When Beowulf tears off Grendel’s arm, Hrothgar remarks, â€Å"I endured much from the foe, many griefs from Grendel† (39). It could be said that the Christian foe is sin, which causes much grief. Against Grendel’s mother, original sin, Beowulf becomes the Christian soldier. When Beowulf struggles against Grendel’s mother, God grants him a precious gift: â€Å"The Wielder of Men granted me that I should see hanging on the wall a fair, ancient, great-sword – most often He has guided the man without friends – that I should wield the weapon† (Norton, 48). This great sword is further described as â€Å"a victory-blessed blade, an old sword made by the giants†¦ the work of giants† (Norton, 47). The sword used to slay Grendel’s mother is work of her ancestral giants, who were godly until they fell from grace. â€Å"From (Cain) sprang all bad breeds, trolls and elves and monsters – likewise the giants who for a long time strove with God† (Norton, 28). Therefore, the sword was god-forged and godly. Here the hero is using â€Å"the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God† to prevail (The Book of Ephesians 6.17, Bible). In his battle with the dragon (which may represent Satan) Beowulf is martyred, losing his life in the of the killing the dragon.

Northampton Coursework – Delimiting the Central Business District

My study is located in Northampton, it is a large town with total population of 197,000 (according to the 2001 census), third largest in England at 21st largest settlement in England. It is located in the East midlands region of England, roughly 67 miles North West of London and lies on the river Nene which forms the border between Cambridgeshire and Norfolk and also is the ninth longest river in England and the twelfth longest in the United Kingdom. Northampton has Junctions 15,15a and a6 of M1 London to North Yorkshire. The A45 and A43 which have primary destinations to Coventry, Rugby, Wellingborough, Kettering and Corby. Northampton has railway services to London and Birmingham provided by London Midland and Virgin Trains. Sywell aerodrome is the nearest airfield which only has a grass runway but for international links, East midlands and Luton airport are quickly accessible via M1/M6 and also by train. Bus services are operated by Stagecoach, First Northampton and MK metro form Greyfriars Bus station in the town. History Northampton is the fastest growing town in England and has applied for city status. Traditionally was a shoe making and leather making town which decreased in 1960 but although some remain. Northampton in the past has been a secondary industry area but now is mainly a tertiary industry containing lots of services such as shopping malls cinemas and restraunts scattered around the town. Northampton has its own university named Northampton University. The town centre also contains many leisure and entertainment spots such as the Derngate theatre which has a capacity of 1200-1400 people at once. The Grosvenor centre and peacock place offer a large indoor shopping facilities however the market square offers an exceptional outdoor shopping facility. Local pubs also provide a great night out while on the other hand the sporting clubs offer a great chance to get involved. Theory There are two types of land use models, Hoyt model and the Burgess model. The Central Business District of a town or a city is usually located in the centre of the city or town. The CBD can be divided into two distinct concentric areas called the core and the Frame. The frame of the CBD has land uses such as office areas, some derelict land, limited light manufacturing, small shop/low grade, specialist services e.g. medical, etc. The core of the CBD is different to the frame because it contains low residential population, some vertical zoning with use of first/second floor, high density of pedestrians, concentration of banks/ business, etc. The PLVI is in the centre of the CBD and means Peak Land Value Intersection, meaning the place with the highest land value. In this investigation we are aiming to delimit the Central Business District of Northampton. Hypotheses 1. Over 70%of land use in the Grosvenor centre will be for high order comparison goods. 2. The highest pedestrian flows will be recorded on Abington Street. 3. The lowest Environmental quality scores will be recorded in the Greyfriars Area. 4. Environmental Quality will be highest in the Grosvenor centre. 5. The age of the buildings will decrease as you travel further form the CBD. 6. Highest traffic will be in the frame as there are car parks and major ring roads in the frame. Methodology (Data Collection techniques) We will collect data in Northampton on Friday the June 19, 2009. We will leave Weavers school at 9 am sharp and return back to school at 3 pm approximately. We will spend roughly 45 minutes in each of our study areas. We have split the centre of Northampton into 6 study areas and they are Greyfriars, Upper Abingdon Street, St Giles Street, Market Square, The Grosvenor Centre and Gold Street/Bridge Street. In each area we will organise ourselves into of 3-5 people so that we can collect data on land use, height of the buildings which will help us delimit the CBD of Northampton. These types of data are primary data but we may also look for sources of secondary data such as leaflets and maps. The selection of Northampton as our study area We chose Northampton as our study area for a number for reasons such as; * Northampton is convenient as it is only 8 miles from Wellingborough. * Northampton is familiar to us and we can revisit it if necessary to collect further information. * We believe Northampton is a typical of a large English town. * Northampton town is a manageable size to survey in a school day. * We have a particular interest in Northampton as it is our county town. * Northampton would be an easy place to study as we have all been there before a number of times. Hypothesises explained 1. Over 70% of the land use in the Grosvenor centre will be for high order comparison as only companies with high profits can afford the high land costs. 2. The highest pedestrian flows will be recorded on Abingdon Street as there are more services and shops for people to shop. 3. The lowest environmental quality scores will be recorded in the Greyfriars area as there is a bus station which pollutes it with air pollution. 4. Environmental Quality will be highest in the Grosvenor centre as it the major shopping area in Northampton. 5. The age of the buildings will decrease as you travel further from the CBD because it costs too much to rebuild as the land prices are high and so are the health and safety risks. 6. Highest traffic will be in the frame as there are car parks and major ring roads in the frame. Conducting a Land Use survey The purpose of conducting a land use survey is to discover the pattern of land use in the study area and attempt to map the edge of the frame and core of the CBD as this is the aim of the whole project. The procedure to conduct a land use is as follows: during the 45mins which are allowed in each of the 6 areas we code each building according to its land use with letters. The land use code varies e.g. PB for public buildings, LO for low order shops, etc. The type of data collected is qualitative as it describes type of use of each building. The advantage of this sort of data is that actually describes the type of building and is quick and easy however it doesn't tell an exact number of buildings in each category. The sampling technique is systematic as this ensures that the whole area is covered without gaps. Conducting a Traffic survey The Purpose of conducting of a traffic survey is to discover where the highest traffic counts are as theory suggests that they will be in the frame as there are lots of parking spaces. The procedure is as follows: Stand at a safe place by the side of the road and record the number of vehicles of different categories that pass you in each five minute period. The type of data is quantitative. The advantage of this sort of data is that it gives an exact number however it doesn't tell what type of vehicle it is, this would matter as if it is a local bus or a lorry are for business purposes while a car is for personal purposes. The sampling technique is systematic point sampling as we don't miss as vehicles which pass us. Conducting a Pedestrian count The purpose of conducting a pedestrian count is to discover where the highest pedestrian counts are as theory suggests they will be in the core of the CBD as there are lots of shops and services. The procedure is as follows: stand in a place where you can clearly see in both directions on the street and count the number of people that pass you in a five minute period using a tally chart. The type of data is collected is quantitative. The advantage of this sort of data is that is tells the exact number of people walking by however it doesn't tell what purpose are the people coming in the town for as this would show what is the use made by people of a particular area. The sampling technique is systematic point sampling so we don't miss any people which pass us. Conducting an Environmental quality survey The purpose of conducting an environmental quality survey is to assess the quality of the environment as in the theory the scores should be higher towards the centre of the CBD as there normally are regular cleaning schedules. The procedure is as follows: give each particular criteria a point on a 5 point rating scale which extends from +2 to -2, the criteria varies from visual impression to pollution etc. The type of data collected is quantitative. The advantage of this sort of data is that it tells exactly how polluted the area is however it doesn't tell what part of the CBD is polluted the most as there are no words and this matters because there is no point getting numbers but don't know where they come from. Data analysis and interpretation Land use- Area 1 The largest category of land use in area 1 is derelict with 21% of the total. This may be because of the current recession which affects the company's profits, closing them down. Other types of land use that are well represented include public buildings. This may be because there is good transport near it, the Greyfriars bus station in the area so the public can access the buildings. Therefore it is likely to be in the frame as it has good transport services. Land use- Area 2 The largest category of land use in area 2 is other services with 20% of the total. This may be because it has high pedestrian count, so more people can access it. Other types of land use that are well represented in area 2 include public buildings, offices and food shops. This may be because it has high pedestrian count, as it has lots of varieties of shops and services. Therefore it could be in the core as there are lots of services. Land use- Area 3 The largest category of land use in area 3 is offices with 15% of the total. This may be because it is a easily accessible area so people working in the office can access it. Other types of land use that are well represented in area 3 include financial services. This may be the fact it is mainly offices. Therefore it could be in the core as it has lots of financial services. Land use- Area 4 The largest category of the land use in the area 4 is public buildings. This may be because it is has lots of roads and a market square that people access normally, so a good place of public buildings that can be accessed be the local public. Other types of land use that are well represented in the area 4 include other services and high order comparison. This may be because, as it is next to the Grosvenor centre which his very high pedestrian counts, it is a location. Therefore this could be in the core as there are lots of services in the area. Land use- Area 5 The largest category of the land use in the area 5 is High Order shops with 40% of the total. This may be because as this area has high pedestrian flow so more people are likely to enter the shop and by goods. Other types of land use that are well represented in area 5 include Low order shops. This may be because as there is high pedestrian flow. Therefore this could be the PLVI as it is a prime shopping area with the most high order comparison shops. Land use- Area 6 The largest category of land use in area 1 is Other Services with 27% of the total. This may be because it is in a high pedestrian area and near major roads. Other types of land use that are well represented in area 6 include low order. This may be because this area is near Market square and Grosvenor centre. Therefore this could be in the core as it has quite a few services. Comparing Traffic flow in different areas The average value of number of vehicles that pass a fixed point in a minute is 41. The range of data was 92. The highest value recorded was 118 vehicles per 2 minutes at the top of Abington Street (area 2) near the A5123, this is 92 more than the lowest value and 77 more than the average. The lowest value was 26 at Drapery (area 4), this is 1 higher that bridge street (area 6) and 16 less than sheep street (area 1). As Grosvenor centre is a shopping centre, traffic flow is not applicable and the average and range were calculated excluding Grosvenor centre. Generally, as the distance from the Grosvenor centre increases so does the traffic flow. We expected to find the highest traffic flow in area 1 as there is a major bus station Greyfriars but instead we found that area 2 has the highest traffic flow. Comparing the Environmental quality of different areas The average environmental quality score was -2 while the range was 25. The highest score was 11 for the Grosvenor centre (area 5), which is 25 points higher than the lowest -14 at bridge street (area 6) and 13 higher than the average. Drapery (area 4) had a score of zero. Castilian Street (area 3) was the second lowest with -9, this 11 less than Abington Street and 7 more than Sheep Street (area 1). Generally, the further away from the Grosvenor centre lower the scores are. Grosvenor also had the best building condition and appearance but no plants or trees, while Bridge Street had the lowest building condition and appearance score also very polluted. We were expecting to find the Grosvenor centre the cleanest as it is the centre of the town and indeed we found Grosvenor centre to be the cleanest. Comparing the Age of buildings of different areas Most buildings were Post War (1946-1969). There were also a few Victorian (1830-1900) and Pre Victorian buildings (before 1830) dotted round the town. There were also some Pre World War 2 (1901-1945).However, the Grosvenor centre, the Multi-story car park, Job centre and few others are modern buildings (1970 -2009). As, so far the Grosvenor centre has been suggested by our data that it is the PLVI, normally the centre of the CBD is quite old and as you go further away the building age decreases. This is an anomaly that we have discovered because the centre of the CBD has the youngest buildings. We were expecting to find the PLVI/Core to be the oldest. Comparing the Pedestrian count of different areas The highest recorded count was 209 on Abington street (area 2) while the lowest on Hazelwood road (area 3) at just 3. Generally Area 2 has the highest count and so does the Grosvenor centre. We expected to find the highest count on Abington Street and indeed we did find that. The range of the data was 206 this suggests that the counts vary a lot from place to place. Looking back at our hypothesis Our first hypothesis was that â€Å"Over 70% of the land use in the Grosvenor centre will be for high order shops†. However, only 39% of the shops were high order which doesn't support the hypothesis but as Grosvenor has the highest percentage of high order comparison shops, it is the Peak Land Value Intersection at the centre of the central business district. Our second hypothesis was that â€Å"The highest pedestrian flows will be recorded on Abington Street†. Our data supports the hypothesis as the highest, 209 people, were recorded. This suggests that Abington Street is in the core of the CBD, also as it is a pedestrianised street it should definitely be in core. Our third hypothesis was that â€Å"The lowest environmental quality scores will be recorded in the Greyfriars area†. Our data challenges the hypothesis as the lowest score was recorded on Bridge Street. This suggests that Bridge Street is not in the core as it is not clean, generally the core of the CBD normally clean. Our fourth hypothesis was that â€Å"Environmental Quality will be highest in the Grosvenor centre†. Our data supports the hypothesis as Grosvenor centre scored 11 points, 25 more than the lowest. This suggests that Grosvenor centre is in the Core as it is the cleanest. Our fifth hypothesis was that â€Å"The age of the buildings will decrease as you travel further from the CBD†. Our data challenges this hypothesis, as the apparent PLVI is the Grosvenor centre, Grosvenor centre is a modern building (1970- 2009) while the building around it are mainly Post war (1946-1969). This suggests that Grosvenor centre is in the not in the CBD. Our sixth hypothesis was that â€Å"Highest traffic will be in the frame†. Our data shows that A5123 near Abington street has the highest traffic flow. This suggests that A5123 is in the frame as it has high traffic flow because frame has major ring roads and transport services. Reaching conclusions about the location of the core and the frame of the CBD Abington Street is definitely in the core because it has the highest pedestrian count also there are lots of high order shops. Grosvenor centre is also definitely in the core, in fact it is the Peak Land Value Intersection because it has the highest percentage of high order shops, and also it is the cleanest of all. A5123 road is definitely in the frame because it has the highest traffic flow. While, Greyfriars is also in the frame because it a major bus station, frame normally has lots transport services. Bridge street is also in the frame because has the poorest environmental quality. The boundary between the core and the frame is between Market Square and the Grosvenor centre, because market square is low order while Grosvenor centre is high order. The other boundary appears to be where Fish street meets St Giles street because there are much lower pedestrian counts and number of high order shops on St Giles street than on Fish street and Abington Street. Furthermore, The Junction near Abington street, A5123 is another boundary between the core and the frame because A5123 has the highest traffic flow while Abington street pedestriansed. There also another boundary, which is between the multistory car park (behind Grosvenor center) and the Grosvenor centre, as frame usually contains car parks while the Grosvenor is high order so it must be in the core. Evaluation of the investigation The investigation has been a success as we have rightfully discovered the extent of the core and the frame in the CBD also boundaries of the core and the frame. The collection of all the data and reaching the conclusion worked well as a part of the investigation because useful and understandable conclusions were reached also the data was effectively collected. The time period was quite short but long enough to get basic data, however for more accurate and precise data more places within the town should have been surveyed and for that longer time period would be needed. So at least 2 day trip should be organised the next time. Also we found the CBD being an anomaly as the youngest buildings were in the core, to improve this an another study place should be selected such as Milton Keynes. The results could also be compared with a similar case study in an LEDC as this would provide a greater comparison. The data might not be reliable as this data was collected during one of the worst recession, this increases the number of the derelict buildings and the total number of shops, offices, etc in the area. For example, a particular area in Northampton before the recession area could be full of high order shops but now because of recession it may be all derelict, so this affects the reliability. This is supported as we did find derelict shops even in the Grosvenor centre. The validity is also affected, the data is still valid because there wasn't an areas that was fully or mostly derelict, the impact of the recession was spread out not targeted in a particular area. We can trust our findings as these are all factual figures collected by ourselves.

A Case Study on Global Warming

Global warming is the steady escalation of the temperature of the earth’s lower atmosphere which started in mid-20th century and its expected continuation (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). It poses heavy environmental and economic problems as widely publicized works, studies and reports have shown.Changes to the frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation are attributed to global warming. This in turn is said to cause glacial recoil, Arctic shrinkage, and worldwide increase in sea level. These changes consequently modify, damage, or even destroy natural habitats which lead to species extinction. Harsh effects on agriculture, reductions in the ozone layer, extreme weather events are more likely to be experienced brought about by global warming.According to the 100 peer reviewed estimates conducted by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2005, the average is US$12 per tonne of CO2, but range -$3 to $95/tCO2. On the other hand, Nicholas Stern ag gregates the economic impact of global warming through gross domestic products (GDP). In his report entitled the Stern Review, he concludes that global GDP might go down by one percent and that global per capita consumption to fall by 20 percent due to extreme weather condition.What is the most probable cause of â€Å"global warming†?Global warming is caused by an increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere such as water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and ozone. Greenhouse effect by water vapor is around 36-70%; CO2 9-26%; methane 4-9% and ozone 3-7% .Greenhouse gases are like â€Å"mirrors† that reflect back to the earth the heat energy, which would otherwise be dispersed in space. This phenomenon is the â€Å"greenhouse effect† which is exacerbated when there are plenty of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.   

A critical analysis of the Book essays

A critical analysis of the Book essays Although she was disabled, she was as responsive as the young men were to the culture of Glen Ridge. (Lefkowitz: 9) Leslie Faber, her real name concealed for privacy, was a seventeen year old mentally challenged female who was coerced into the basement of the Scherzer house where she was promised that her dream date Paul Archer would be waiting for her. Having grown up in the town of Glen Ridge, Leslie had previous social relations with the boys who were in the basement. All of the boys were quite familiar with her mental disability that allowed her to be easily coerced and manipulated. Despite the fact that the Scherzers grandmother was upstairs, or that six of the thirteen boys left when the assault on Leslie first began, Kyle and Kevin Scherzer, Chris and Paul Archer, Bryant Grober, Peter Quigley, and Richard Corcoran continued with their rape of Leslie Faber. Directly after the attack, the boys told Leslie that she must keep the incident a secret with threats that they would no longer be her friend, she would be kicked out of school, and that her mother would be mad at her. Well be ma d at you if you talk about this, youll get kicked out of your school, well tell your mother if you break our secret (Lefkowitz: 25). The six seniors and one junior high school boy involved in the gang rape had a history of behavioral misconduct in the Glen Ridge community. Some examples of their misbehavior include: disrespectful attitudes to those in authority, sexual exposure in school, stealing money from the girls purses at the Candy Cane Ball, and the vandalism of property at a students party. However, regardless of these actions, the boys were never seriously punished. They were viewed as town heroes; they were attractive young athletes who were involved in football, wrestling, and baseball. These sports were some of the most important and prestigious insti...

Infographic How to Apply for College, Step by Step

Infographic How to Apply for College, Step by Step SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips The college application process can be a long and difficult journey for high school students. Organizing your application materials well in advance and paying attention to deadlines is critical. You should also start researching colleges earlier rather than later so that you can account for each school's specific application requirements. In this infographic, I've broken down the actions you need to take to be prepared for college applications starting at the beginning of your junior year through to your senior spring. Applying to collegeisn't as intimidating as it might seem! There are certain basic steps you will need to take beginning in your junior year. Ideally, you should take the SAT or ACT for the first time your junior fall to give yourself plenty of time to improve your scores before you apply to college. The early to middle part of junior year is also the best time to begin researching colleges. This ties into potentially retaking the SAT or ACT if you find that the colleges that interest you are looking for higher scores. In the spring of your junior year, it's a good idea to ask teachers if they are willing to write recommendation letters for you. Asking for letters early on will ensure that the teachers you've chosen are on board, and the letters themselves may turn out better since your teachers will have more time to think about what they want to say. In the summer before senior year, you can make your final college list and start looking at the specific requirements for each school. This is also a good time to prep for your last chance at standardized tests and begin thinking about your college essay. You should write a first draft of your essay in the summer so that you won't have to worry too much about it during the school year. When you're trying to fill out applications and manage your classes at the same time, the essay can seem like an overwhelming responsibility. Once your senior year starts, you should submit formal requests for recommendation letters to the teachers who agreed to write them for you in the spring. If you're planning on taking the SAT or ACT one last time, your final chance will be in October or November if you're applying early decision. Most early action and early decision applications are due by November 15th, and you will get back the decisions about a month later in mid-December. Regular decision applications are typically due around January 1st, but colleges have different policies for how late you can submit your SAT or ACT scores. Often, students are permitted to submit scores from tests taken as late as February, but make sure to look up schools individually to see what's allowed. You should be notified about the status of your regular decision applications by late March.All that's left after that is to choose your favorite college out of the schools where you were accepted. This might be the hardest part of the whole process (but in a good way)! What's Next? Are you interested in highly competitive colleges? Find out more about the most selective schools and how to ensure that you have the best chance of being accepted. If you're struggling to start writing your college essay, read this article to learn which prompt you should choose and how you can being the brainstorming process. Extracurricular activities will be an important aspect of your college application. Find out more about extracurriculars and why you should have them! Want to improve your SAT score by 240 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Dissertation paraphrasing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 8250 words

Dissertation paraphrasing - Essay Example It is a major concern to reduce the carbon emissions by utilizing the clean sources of energy. Most of the power generated in the Saudi Arabia is from the thermal power plants and there is a need to utilize sustainable resources such as wind and solar energy. Jeddah is situated near Mecca and plays a main role in consuming electricity. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a leading country in the middle east of the Arabian Peninsula. The Area covered by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is almost twenty one and a half million square kilometres (2,150,000 sq km). Islamic laws are followed in the country and people lead their lives according to Holy Quran and Prophet’s Sunnah. The present monarch of the country is King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz who is also guardian of the two holy mosques. The capital city of the country is Riyadh, which is also the biggest city of the country. The total urban area of the city is one thousand five hundred and fifty four square kilometres (1554 sq km). 4.6 million People are residing in the city of Riyadh. The second biggest city of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia with an urban area of seven hundred and forty eight square kilometres (748 sq km) is Jeddah. It located on the coastal line of Red Sea. Almost 3.4 million people are residing in the city of Jeddah. An approximated population of the Ki ngdom of Saudi Arabia is 28.7 million in which 5.6 million people are non-natives and rest are natives. The urban population of the country is almost 82% of the total population. The weather in the Arabian Peninsula is a bit harsh as compared to other places. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has coastal as well as desert regions. In the country’s southwest mountains are also present. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has both dry and humid weather. The major part of the desert is deserted and except some tribes, no one faces the extreme weather of the

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Strategic Management Unit 5 DB - Essay Example Their main reason for breaking the bond was that the cultures of the two companies could not accommodate each other. Incompatible networks and ugly phones resulted into bad customer experience. It was difficult to merge assets and liabilities of the two firms hindering the creation of the much anticipated synergy (Ireland, Hoskisson & Hitt, 2008). Economic down turn also begun to take a biting turn and customers expectation grew large and larger. Further, stiff competition form market rivals such as AT&T, the iPhone, as well as Verizon, ate away significant market share driving down the sales of the joint venture. In most cases, mergers and acquisitions have negative impact on employees. The case of Sprint and Nextel merger was no exception. Moreover, the difficult times after the merger only impounded more misfortunes for the employees of the two companies. Amidst the crisis of the joint venture, it started to lay-off workers in a bid to reduce operating costs. An employee who never obliged to the strict policies by taking some break from work as a result of his father’s death was mercilessly fired (Ireland, Hoskisson & Hitt, 2008). The merger was no good news for employees of both

Credit Card Companies targeting College Students on Campuses Essay

Credit Card Companies targeting College Students on Campuses - Essay Example Moreover, almost a third of the 76% of current college students have been offered free gifts in order to sign up for the credit cards. Consequently, this has led to nearly a dozen of states restricting credit card marketing to students within campuses. Despite such moves, credit companies have persistently remained aggressive in signing up students within campuses for credit cards (Chu). This is despite the common view credit companies should not target college students on their campuses while marketing credit cards. Arguments against Marketing of Credit Cards to Students within Campuses Marketing of credit cards to students within campuses is against provisions of Federal Law on credit cards for college students. According to Chu, Federal Law on credit card categorically outlines that no bank or financial lending institution should give credit card to students and young adults of below 21 years who have no steady income or cosigner. This federal law prohibition provides a framework within which credit cards should be given that is, to persons above 21 years with a steady income. Unfortunately, most undergraduates after finishing school end up with enormous credit, which may eventually lead to bankruptcy and at the verge of financial crisis. Based on statistics obtained by the US Public Interest Research Group, graduating college students leave school with approximately $ 4,000 in debts (Uspirg.org). The US Public Interest Research Group goes ahead to establish that 56% of undergraduates obtain their first credit cards at the age of 18 years, which is a period when someone cannot make informed decisions (Uspirg.org). What’s more, by the time such a student is graduating, he or she will be in possession of four or more credit cards. Credit companies have been forced to enter into unethical business practices in order to entice and persuade college students to sign up for credit cards. College students are vulnerable to cheap offers such as T-shirts, pizzas, and other free gifts. Financial institution clearly understands the vulnerability of college students, which they unethically capitalize on to convince them to sign up for credit cards (Chu). Convincing and enticing of college students do not only include gifts but also dwell in short-lived offers such as lower interest rates and other deceptive marketing practices. For instance, in 2007 the state attorney charged Citi Bank and its marketing counterpart, Elite Marketing with application of deceptive marketing practices to entice students in order to sign up for credit cards. Taking ad vantage of consumer’s situation and vulnerability is an unethical practice that may only end up ruining and organization. The credit companies responsible for marketing of credit cards to students should be prohibited from taking advantage of college students’ vulnerability to cheap offers. College students other than being vulnerable to cheap offers are new, inexperienced, and uninformed adequately regarding credit cards and in the market place. In this regard, marketing credit cards with only advantages will make students accept such offers without understanding how it works and demerits (Dickler). As a result, many of them end up incurring hefty sums of debts, which trails back to their parents. Placing more burdens to parents in addition to their normal responsibilities of paying tuition fee and caring for students is unfair and uncalled for especially in the contemporary business world where living standards have incrementally increased. Statistics by US Public In terest Research Group clearly indicates that 61% of students fully depend on their parents for fee and all other educational costs, with 40% and 38%

A Study On HNC Social Care Social Policy Essay

A Study On HNC Social Care Social Policy Essay Values are standards and principals by which we live our lives. These standards are many and often depend on people`s background e.g. Culture, class, religion, gender, age. Values are extremely individual attitudes that direct people`s responses to the world around them. Amongst some of the values I live my life by and respect are privacy allowing me to have space to myself and respecting the fact that others may desire privacy, to be safe and also allowing others the same, having self respect, being trustworthy, being non judgmental, being anti discriminatory, respect life and faith, value freedom and equality, value choice and others points of view. I have learned to live my life this way from my parents and their families. The schools and church where I was taught , espoused the values of  Ã‚   human dignity, solidarity for the common good , charity , and the family,   all of   which I continue to hold dear. I therefore try to ensure that I treat people the way I would like to be treated. Because of these values, I am able to work happily alongside the organization I volunteer for, as their policies and procedures represent many of these common values. We ensure the right to dignity, choice, respect, privacy, and protection. I must consider my clients beliefs and preferences. I currently volunteer as a Befriender for a group that helps adults with learning disabilities become included within the community through socialization, by matching Befriendees with supportive Befrienders. I, as a volunteer for this organization, provide their service participants with the opportunity to take a full and satisfying part in their community. I also help to raise awareness of issues affecting adults with learning difficulties in community participation. I did this in a major way by participating in the collection and presentation of our petition to the Scottish Parliament to request that Befriending is to be financed with core funding. Although Befriending, to help social inclusion was briefly mentioned as a means of supporting adults with learning disabilities in â€Å"Same as you Strategy†2000, this article has never been defined by the government as a core service to be provided by councils. As a result, Befriending for Adults with Learning Disabilities has rarely been financed or delivered by statutory services. However, the social work department is the main means of referral to our organization and so for the moment receive this service free, financed by charitable donations. I feel this is a form of statutory discrimination against our client group and hope our petition resolves this situation. This petition has received a positive reaction from the petitions committee and is still going through the committee processe s. The core values of our organisation are underpinned by the National Care Standards, which were set up under the Regulation of Care (Scotland)Act 2001. This Act came about to regulate the care and social work force and set out the principals of good care practice. The Care Commission was set up under this Act to register, regulate, and inspect all care services listed in the Act. It also established The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). The SSSC has aims and objectives to protect the service users, raise standards, strengthen, and support workforce professionalism. There are six main standards laid down in National Care Standards that are at the centre of any care practice. Dignity â€Å"making someone feel worthy and impressive† as defined in the Oxford English Dictionary. I ensure that I give dignity by respecting individuals for who they are. I recognise all individuals are different and I am sensitive and aware of this. Privacy and confidentiality is the need and right to privacy. The principle of confidentiality between me and the service user is built on mutual respect and trust. Confidentiality is further reinforced by the Data Protection Act 1998. This allows our service users to see any information that is held on them. I must ensure that this information is held securely in a locked filing cabinet. Any information I write in an activity plan must be truthful, factual, and accurate with my opinions to be objective. Choice means giving and explaining different options to individuals. I support our service users by encouraging their right to choose. By offering they limited options that will encourage them to look at positive alternatives within a safe environment. Safety means that I must ensure my service user when in my care, is protected from harm and abuse. If I suspect or observe that harm and abuse has or is taking place, against a service user, I must report the incident in an Incident Report   Form within 36 hrs of the episode to my line manager. I also complete a risk assessment form before any activity. Realising Potential ensures that I must allow my service users the chance to aim to achieve things great and small within their abilities. These core values are represented within our organisations policies and procedures. To ensure client safety we have a Health and Safety Policywhich is designed to comply with the Health and Safety at work Act 1974. Risk Assessments are used on a daily basis before an activity to ensure that the staff and clients are safe on the premises. We also have Accident and Incident Reporting procedures which are required under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulation 1995(RIDDOR), Social Security Regulations 1979 (SRR),Data Protection Act, to be reportedin an efficient manner. I must complete relevant forms and report to my line manager. If an event requires reporting directly to RIDDOR the records should be kept securely for at least three years. Our Equalities policy complies with the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and 1986, the Race Relations Act of 1976 and the Race Relation Amendments Regulations of 2003, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. Our organization opposes all forms of unfair and unlawful discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, religion, nationality, social background, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age and disability. It also promotes the principle of equal opportunities in paid employment, voluntary work, and service provision. Although it is important to apply positive values within my practice, it is sometimes difficult to do so. Giving someone choice needs to be balanced by ensuring that this choice is safe and positive. Giving Adults with Learning Disabilities too many choices can cause confusion and sometimes fear. So I give limited positive choices to ensure that this does not happen. Safety issues can also limit choices, as under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and National Care Standards it is important that I ensure my client is safe from harm and abuse. If a risk assessment shows that an activity is not suitable to the client because of safety issues then the choice of doing that particular activity is reduced. The values conflicting here are my clients health and safety and his right to choice. Privacy and confidentiality is dealt with in our Confidentiality policy. Our organization requires information about clients, volunteers, staff other organizations and our own organization. I am therefore committed to ensuring that all information is stored safely which also allows appropriate retrieval. Confidential material must be kept in a locked cabinet. Volunteers are only able to see files â€Å"on a need to know basis only†. Computer access is limited to authorized staff and information backed up. All of these policies are compatible with the Data Protection Act 1998.If a client discloses something to me and asks me not to tell anyone then I must respect his/her wishes as a matter of trust. However, sometimes this can be difficult, especially if abuse is disclosed. Under these circumstances I am obliged to tell him/her that I understand his/her need for confidentiality, but the circumstances require me to advise my line manager in writing and that this will be in his/her best interests and to try not to worry. The values conflicting here are protection from harm and abuse and confidentiality. As we do not supply a care service, we are not required to regi ster with the Care Commission, but we ensure all our policies and procedures meet their standards. As all clients under these standards are legally allowed an individualized care plan, we instead have an activity plan. To ensure no discrimination takes place the client is assessed using (Ref1)PIES.   We take into account, our clients Physical needs, Intellectual needs, Emotional needs, and Social needs. Needs were first described as requirements for our survival in the model put forward by (Ref 2) Abraham Maslow, a Humanist Psychologist. He stated that human needs can be arranged in a stepladder pyramid and that the lower level needs must be satisfied before higher levels can be met. Starting from the basic psychological need , then moving to safety and security, social, esteem, and self- actualization. He suggested that not satisfying these needs the person could become frustrated and emotionally distressed, with possibly poverty and crisis taking place. He also suggested that these needs must be met in order.  Ã‚   Prejudice as (Ref3) defined in the Collins dictionary â€Å"is an unreasonable dislike of a particular group of people or things, or a preference for a one group of people or things over another†. Prejudice is caused by a lack of understanding of something, causing the wrong impression to be created. (Ref4)The Functionalist perspectives state that society can be likened to the human body, with different organs (institutions) having different functions yet all working together to keep the body (society) alive. The negative aspects of discrimination according to the functionalists state that it exacerbates poverty and crime, that society fails to use the resources of all individuals, discourages good will, and discourage the resolution of disputes. These negative aspects can provide jobs by having to employ police officers, justice system, and civil servants. Although not to be encouraged, the functionalists state that the positive aspects of prejudice keep people in their prope r place within society and discourage them from questioning their place within society. The functionalists believe that it is normal for one group to be superior to the other, that society is unequal and competition within society is natural. Discrimination happens when one group does not want to have another group change their set roles. Changes in the economy can see prejudice affecting those in poverty because other groups may feel that the benefit system budget is being abused by those who are out of work. Prejudice can be seen in my client group, which has a definite need of the benefit system. Working with people with learning disabilities has shown me that prejudice arises amongst some of the local community. This is a small section of the community pre- judging those with learning disabilities through lack of knowledge and so they hold unfavourable views or opinions towards people who are different and so bullying can take place. Adults with learning disabilities are a section of society that tends not to be able to stand up for themselves. They rely on family, social workers, advocacy workers, and support workers to advise them on their rights, choices, and responsibilities. Unfortunately, through no fault of their own, some sections of this community may not receive this relevant information. They do not receive the care, benefits, and advice that they need, or they do not receive the statutory services they deserve. This can be caused by certain people denying our client group their rights and so discriminate against them. Harassment, bullying, and hate crimes of those with learning disabilities takes place in many areas. The recent death of a mother and daughter burned to death in England after numerous threats and harassment is an excessive example and result of discrimination. Discrimination takes place through fear, misunderstanding, misinformation, and so as well as laws against discrimination, we need to educate and provide training against it. To try to ensure that the incident that took place does not happen in our community, our organization is involved in providing a training service to the community. I have taken part in training to try to educate youths from the local secondary school about Learning Disabilities. This resulted in them becoming peer volunteers to younger children with Learning Disabilities from the local school for autistic children. A music group was set up to bring these two groups of youngsters together, with positive results. (Ref 5) Adults with Learning Disabilities are more likely to develop health problems. Therefore, without support, they may not be able to make their feelings known and so screening and or treatment may be denied. The need for support to allow them to lead as normal a life as their abilities allow and to access services, has a financial cost to society. The belief that people with learning disabilities, are a financial burden to society, and not providing relevant support is evidence of discrimination.Their ill health has my client group adults with learning disabilities relying on benefits. Therefore, being able to afford the use of transport and taking part in social activities are reduced for those who are on benefits. This is more evident in those with learning disabilities in rural areas. They are socially excluded and marginalized, through the lack of affordable and regular transport services. The chances of employment for this group of individuals are rare as most do not have the capacity to engage in work and so they will continue to live on benefits. Psychologically that can result in depression, low self- esteem, frustration, or anger. Causing their behaviour to be affected, by them becoming withdrawn or violent. Through legislation, social care organizations now have to be more accountable and have increasing responsibilities to write and maintain policy and procedures. These have to comply with current legislation and exist to protect people`s rights and ensure quality services are provided. Our policies and procedures must have specific guidelines, for example, they cover confidentiality and privacy, equal opportunities, health and safety, abuse policies, lone working practices, activity planning and reviews and risk assessment and management. I have a responsibility to read the organizations policy and procedures thoroughly and integrate them into my practice. I should query any uncertainties and report any infringements. If I am uneasy about the practice of others within the organization or within any other agency I come into contact with, I must report to my line manager and seek advice. My manager has a responsibility to produce these policies and procedures ensuring they incorporate current legislation. Management ensures that staff and service users have easy access to them. Discussion and reflection of policies and procedures to ensure they are justified and explained to staff is encouraged. I receive continued training, support, and supervision and engage in partnership working with relevant agencies. References. 1. Elizabeth Bingham +. (2009). Social Care: Group Award Graded Unit. In: Heinemann HNC in Social Care. Edinburgh: Heinemann. 147. 2. Elizabeth Bingham +. (2009). Psychological perspectives and Theories on development and needs. In: Heinemann HNC in Social Care. Edinburgh: Heinemann. 86-89. 3. http://dictionary.reverso.net/english-cobuild/prejudice 4. Eliz Bingham + (2009). HNC in Social Care. Edinburgh: Heinemann. 112 5. http://www.learningdisabilities.org.uk/media/news-releases/newsreleases-2005/14-july-2005/?locale=en

Land Destruction Essay -- Environmental Ecology Nature Essays

Land Destruction What is land destruction? Land destruction involves many different things. It can be logging of trees and rain forest. Nuclear waste is one that is very serious that is harmful to the land. As well, pollution, air, water and land all do damage of some kind. Land destruction is something that doesn’t need to be taking lightly. There are many other items such as building and dams that cause damage to the land as well. This is a topic that needs to be addressed and fixed. All of this items listed above are dreadful to the land. Land destruction needs to be stopped and taken care of before it goes to far to stop. Pollution is something that is everywhere. It is a subject that affects the way of life across the world. â€Å"The causes of pollution in the region include agricultural practices, mining, and household and industrial activities that generate waste streams into water, air, and land systems.† (Zurick, 1) Causes of pollution vary from what they are to what they do the land. Chemicals are one type of pollution that does serious harm to the land. â€Å"World sales in chemical products have multiplied nine times since 1970, increasing from 171 billion dollars to 1500 billions in 1998.† (Industrial, 1) This meaning that there are more chemicals out there to do more damage to the land. â€Å"Among the most polluting products are heavy metals - for example, mercury inside batteries, lead in gasoline - and pollutants made from oil (plastic†¦).† (Industrial, 1) There are many cars around the world that need gasoline to run as well as batteries to make the auto mobiles go where they need to go. â€Å"One battery containing mercury thrown into nature pollutes 400 liters of water and one third of land during 50 years.... ... keep down the waste. As well as replanting trees after logging takes place. We need to get land destruction under control before it become to much, and our land becomes overrun with dirt and pollution and it can not be used for anything. The land damage needs to be stopped now, and help keep the world in good shape so the future generations will have land to enjoy! Work Cited â€Å"Industrial Pollution†. Young Reporter for the Environment. http://www.ac-grenoble.fr/yre/article.php3?id_article=212. Joyce, S. Is It Worth a Dam?. Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 105, Number 10, October 1997. â€Å"Land Destruction†. Saving Our Environment. http:// library.thinkquest.org/C0111401/land_pollution.htm Reisner, M. (2000). A Forest of Voices: Conversations in Ecology (2nd Ed.). Coming Undammed. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield Publishing Company.

Adolescence problems Essay

Adolescence describes the teenage years between 13 and 19 and can be considered the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood. However, the physical and psychological changes that occur in adolescence can start earlier, during the preteen or â€Å"tween† years (ages 9-12). Adolescence can be a time of both disorientation and discovery. The transitional period can bring up issues of independence and self-identity. Sometimes adolescents may be experimenting with drugs and alcohol or sexuality. During this time, peer groups and external appearance tend to increase in importance. Home BiologyHuman Population and Health Top Problems of Adolescence Most problems of adolescence are due to failure in understanding the anatomical, morphological and psychological changes expected during adolescence. Psychologically, adolescence is such a vulnerable stage that boys / girls of this age are easily carried away by perceptions generated by Misleading and misguiding parents, teachers, friends, brother/sisters. Ignorance of elders. Half – informed or ill – informed friends, brothers, sisters. Wrongful messages depicted through TV serials, advertisements, films Publications carrying partially or fully false information. Such perceptions can be anything in the range of studies, sex, society, married life, career, religion, politics, or any relevant subject. Every adolescent boy or girl is prone to such exposures – which ultimately are retained as perceptions in their minds to form their behavioural patterns. The problems of adolescence are classified as morphological / developmental psychological social educational Some problems are absolutely unimportant and trivial. They could be easily ignored. But even such problems cause great concern to adolescent people. Psychological Problems 3. Social 4. Educational 5. Social Implications Morphological / Developmental Problems Back to Top over growth of hair or undergrowth of hair over weight and underweight skin colour problems Facial deformities, pimples, etc. Limb deformities Abnormal growth of genitals and breasts. Psychological Problems Back to Top Ignorance about many basic facts leads to psychological problems like Misconceptions about sexual feelings, sex related issues. Misconceptions about child birth, reproduction. Misconceptions about coitus, menstrual cycles. Fear about sex and sexual issues. Guilt feeling about sex related issues. Inferiority / Superiority complex about skin colour, beauty, mental ability and IQ. Inexplicable perceptions about dress and fashion codes. Wrong and unrealistic ideologies about friendship and courtship. Perceptional or communicational or preconceived complications about their teachers and parents. Attraction towards opposite sex. Unrealistic and illogical curiosity about sex and sex related issues. Exceptional vulnerability to suicide psychology. Social Back to Top Anticipated unemployment and insecurity due to unemployment. Unwarranted and inexplicable hatredness towards brother / sisters, friends. Intense closeness with brothers / sisters, friends. Unpredictable and volatile relationships with friends. Unrealistic social perceptions about violence, love, sex as influenced by media. Unusually vulnerable and volatile relations with relatives. Fear / imagination about married life, life partners. Educational Back to Top Tensions of attending the classes, examinations and tests. Low IQ feeling. Fear about failure in examination. Fear about low score. Fear and concern about a future career. Misconceptions about teachers. Due to many problems faced during adolescence, the boys and girls of the age between 8 – 16 form a separate category by themselves. Their problems are specific to themselves. Most of the problems faced by them are perceptional. By timely and effective guidance – many of their problems could be solved. Some of them may need medical / psychiatric attention. In India, the parents influence their behaviour, thoughts and are in position to solve many problems – if they have positive approach. Despite all efforts being made by parents, teachers, large number of adolescents face one or many problems. When the problem is aggravated, the parents may take them to doctors. But most of them face minor problems – modifying their behavioural patterns, personality as a whole. The implications of problems in adolescence can be moral or social. Social Implications Back to Top Future citizen may have a high IQ due to positive thinking and reorientation of their mental resources towards positive personality development. A section of future population may turn into disgruntled, impatient group of people due to grooming of misconceptions about society, love, law, relations, etc. Due to wrong educational policies and ever growing unemployment problems – a section of population may turn hostile against the whole society, which breeds and deepens the antisocial activities and perverted thinking. Many of the wrong perception about sex related problems may lead them to unwanted motherhood, anxiety or illegal termination of pregnancy. Some problems during adolescence are decisive in building the personalities (positive and negative) – who may or may not utilize the opportunities open to them during their later life. When teachers, parents, brothers /sisters or any close person has positive dominant personality to effectively guide the adolescent at right time – they turn out to be very useful section of future population. Imaginary fear, imaginary anxieties and unrealistic expectations as well as host of strong misconceptions may ultimately end up with personalities of negative / perverted thoughts. In extreme disillusions, tension, wrongful personality and maladjustments – a section of population may have to be psychiatric patients. Psychosis of mild nature may remain untreated and unnoticed. Such people will not do anything useful to the society or their families. Adolescent being influenced by mass media like electronic media, print media or computer culture – may be guided or misguided by such exposure. When misguided – they are likely to develop negative perception about many social values. The social implications of adolescent problems are dependent upon social structure. In a country like India – where family ties are strong due to emotional, financial, religious attachments – the gravity of implications are less. But in an individualistic society like US / Europe – where family ties are shallow – the gravity of implications can be far more serious. Finding help for families, teenagers and children can be a challenge. But there is good news. Information and referral systems are available from our schools, medical offices, news magazines, the yellow pages and even the Internet. Many parents are finding help and discovering resources by asking family, friends and their co-workers. In fact, information and referrals based on a personal recommendation is a great way to find help. Unfortunately, finding help for children and families has become more  difficult than finding help for most adults problems. For instance, health insurance has many restrictions that limit who you can see and what services they can provide. Most of the problems that families and children face are not covered and only certain diagnoses will be treated. Public programs across the country lack adequate funding. The schools have programs, but they desperately need more staff and money to meet the demands that currently exist. There are many private counselors who work with children, but there are only a few who work with families and children who have serious behavioral and emotional problems. The consequence when children don’t get the help they need can be tragic. Parents and families give up when they don’t know what to do, when they are discouraged and when they lack adequate information. Finding and getting help means you need to get oriented and understand the problems and potential solutions. Behavior Problems. In order to deal with a problem it will help a great deal if parents can describe the problem in terms that may lead to a solution. Here are the problems that I see parents and their children facing. Many of these will surface in small children or they may not appear until children become teenagers. Social withdrawal and isolation – Refusal to go to school – Demanding and selfish attitude – Disregard for rules, responsibilities and family functioning – Poor study behavior and skills – Unfocused or disruptive behavior in classroom – Grades and school performance dropping – Erratic or emotionally unstable behavior – Poor hygiene and grooming – Behavior is disrespectful or defiant Involved in high risk and reckless activities – Using alcohol or other drugs – Skipping school – Stealing or theft – Destructive, threatening or violent behavior – Self-harming or suicidal behavior Typical Causes. It takes time for problems to become critical, life threatening or intolerable. At some point, one can trace the cause to one or more factors. A pattern of problems will usually occur over time before a problem becomes a crisis. Identifying these factors can help characterize the evolution of a problem or a crisis, the appropriate response and the potential solution that may be necessary. – â€Å"Brittle† or fragile emotional temperament – Social demands exceed current ability – Peer and social pressures – Failure to provide rules, discipline and a bonded relationship with a child – Parental divorce or separation Family conflict and discord – Neglect or abandonment – Traumatic experience – Undiagnosed medical or psychological problem – Untreated parental alcoholism, drug abuse or mental disorder – Alcohol and other drug use What are the Solutions?. The first step is to define the problem and a potential cause. After that, you need to explore potential solutions. There are at least several dozen potential solutions to any problem. That is a lot to consider. Unfortunately, access to many of these resources may depend on the parent’s employment benefits and their income. Many public programs have waiting lists and may exclude children if the problem is not severe enough. Exclusion from public programs does not mean the problem is minor. Many programs are full and can only take children with more severe problems. The following is a partial list of potential solutions. – Self-help – Parenting education and training – Individual counseling and therapy – Group counseling and therapy – Parenting consultation and advice – Family counseling and therapy – Increased parental involvement and supervision – Tutoring – Special education programs – Change schools – Outdoor activities or adventure programs – Move to a new area – Parenting by other family members – Foster care – Health and human service case management – Private school – Day treatment therapy program – Boarding school – Therapeutic boarding school – Residential treatment program – Medication intervention – Psychiatric hospitalization – Police or law enforcement response Diagnosis can be misleading. There are many ways to define problems. One of the least useful and potentially harmful is to rely entirely on a diagnosis. A diagnosis alone can be misleading. Many problems are not solved because the problem was diagnosed, the underlying problems were missed or ignored, and the diagnosis suggested an approach that was inadequate and unfocused. A diagnosis can create a false sense of certainty. Why? Because the diagnostic procedures used in mental health are not much more sophisticated than one used to diagnose a headache or a stomach ache. For instance, there are many forms of headaches and stomach aches. There are many things that can cause a headache – a tumor, tension, injury, eye strain, diet, disease, flu, allergies, a cold or bacterial infections etc.. In mental health, no matter how rigidly we use diagnostic criteria, or how sophisticated the interview process, we are still looking at patterns that have many origins. There can be many sources and causes for a particular problem – especially family problems that involve children. A traumatic experience can result in many different problems. The behaviors associated with attention deficits and hyperactivity can be caused and maintained by many things. As a result, there are many potential outcomes and approaches, and these can vary with each family, their beliefs, values, attitudes, culture, ethnicity and their resources. Parents need more than a diagnosis. It helps to understand a problem in a manner that can tell us how a potential solution may work. It’s not enough to say that a child is depressed and they need to talk to a counselor. A child who is living in an abusive home may be depressed and emotionally withdrawn, but they don’t necessarily need therapy to express their emotions. The family may be the more important focus and the most important part of the solution. Counseling and Therapy. Counseling and therapy is a mixed bag as far as solutions go. There are more than 200 types of counselors and therapists. Trying to find the right one can be overwhelming or end up a waste of time. There is also a great deal of similarity between some counselors and some therapists. Counseling is not therapy. Counseling usually results in a realization, a plan or a decision. A therapist provides an environment of activities that bring about change – almost like exercise. There are no simple words of advice or a formula that will absolutely insure that your family or child will find the right person. Trial and error may be required. But there are four guidelines that have been shown to increase the likelihood of success. Become invested. Educate yourself, gather information and become actively invested in understanding the problem and selecting a counselor or therapist. – Learn how it works. Don’t select a particular counselor or therapist unless you believe they can clearly describe the problem, how their approach to therapy or counseling works, and how that approach will resolve the problem. – The relationship heals. The relationship you and your child have with a counselor or therapist as well as their approach are equally important. Work with people you and your child trust, like and believe is competent. – Get references. Ask for the names of other parents or professionals who can recommend a potential counselor or therapist. There is no better reference than a credible recommendation and past success with similar problems. Medications. The use of medication can present a real solution and a real problem for most parents. Medications can have a powerful effect on the mood and behavior of children. For parents who have tried â€Å"everything else†, medications can make the difference between a life lost and a chance to become a reasonably successful adult. There are certain realities when one decides to use medication. For one thing, psychiatric medications for behavioral and mental health problems will treat the symptoms and not the cause. Medications do not cure psychological, emotional and behavioral problems. Psychiatric medications that are used to treat depression, anxiety, mood swings, attention deficits, hyperactivity and disorganized thinking always affect another part of a child’s body and brain. These â€Å"side-effects† are not clearly understood and the long term impact on growing children is still uncertain. Law suites are surfacing and legislators are proposing legislation to address recognized dangers in the wrongful medication on children. While one should be cautious about the use of medications to treat behavioral problems, there is certainly a place for these drugs. In severe cases, and cases where parents cannot afford therapy and special schools, medications can bring hope to an otherwise hopeless situation. In some cases, children may require medication to simply participate in school, family activities and counseling or therapy. More importantly, a child’s personality and attitude in life will be damaged if that child is left in a depressed, anxious or otherwise dysfunctional state for an extended period of time. Medication can be a â€Å"life boat† and deterrent against psychological and social trauma that come from serious but temporary problems that would otherwise destroy a child’s attitude toward life. But before you start any medication, ask your pharmacist for information on the side effects. The Power of Parenting and Family. Parents and family members can have the most powerful impact of a child’s behavior, attitude and approach to life. Put simply, children are persuaded and impressed by the people they spend the most time with and the people who matter most. That should be the child’s parents and family. Why? Because a therapist can only provide an exceptional environment, relationship and activities for an hour or so a week. Individual counseling and therapy may not be enough for most children – especially if that child is facing social pressure, temptations, painful experiences and inappropriate role models during the remainder of the week. In most cases, individual therapy or counseling without parental or family involvement is not enough. In some cases, therapy and counseling can result in a child developing unrealistic expectation of their parents and family. It is easier to be a therapist than it is to be a parent. This is why family education and involvement in counseling and therapy may be essential. Therapy and counseling should never replace the essential role of parents or a family. It should support those roles. But if parents are unwilling or unable to become involved with their child or in therapy, then therapy can provide the support that some children desperately need. Peers and Social Pressure. At a very early age, many children are profoundly influenced by their peers. It has been repeatedly observed in social science that children learn behaviors and will adopt the attitude of children they are emotionally bonded with. As children begin to bond with other children, they seek approval, advice and even direction for their life. The struggle for independence and separation from parents is a natural process. However, problems will invariably surface, attitudes may become hostile, and values can become lost when parents become less involved with their children. Social pressure is a powerful tendency for children to imitate and adopt the behavior and emotional sensitivity of others. Children begin to think the way they talk with their friends. Children tend to become what they think about.